Crockpot Grape Jelly Meatballs are a fun and tasty treat! These little meatballs cook slowly in a sweet and tangy grape jelly sauce, making them perfect for parties or game days.
They’re super easy to whip up. Just mix the meatballs with the jelly sauce in the crockpot and let it do its magic. You won’t believe how fast they disappear!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Meatballs: You can use frozen cocktail meatballs for convenience, but homemade ones can add more flavor. If you’re counting calories, turkey or chicken meatballs work well too!
Grape Jelly: This is the star of the dish, giving it that sweet and tangy flavor. If you’re not a fan of grape, you could substitute with raspberry or peach jelly for a different twist.
Chili Sauce: This adds depth and a bit of heat. If you don’t have chili sauce, ketchup can work in a pinch, but it will make the sauce sweeter. You could add some hot sauce to balance that out.
Soy Sauce: Adding soy sauce is optional but adds a nice umami flavor to the dish. You could use tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos for a soy-free alternative.
How Do I Ensure My Meatballs Cook Evenly in the Crockpot?
To get evenly cooked meatballs, stir them every hour if you can. This helps the sauce coat all the meatballs and ensures they absorb that tasty flavor. Also, avoid overcrowding them in the crockpot; give them space to cook properly. If you’re using homemade meatballs, make sure they are uniform in size so they cook evenly.
- Start by placing frozen meatballs directly in the crockpot.
- Whisk the sauce ingredients together first, then coat the meatballs.
- Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours, or high for 2-3 hours. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking!
Crockpot Grape Jelly Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 2 pounds frozen cocktail meatballs (or homemade meatballs)
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup grape jelly
- 1 cup chili sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (optional for a slight umami boost)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of preparation time, plus cooking time of 4-5 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high in the crockpot. It’s a great make-ahead dish for parties or gatherings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatballs:
If you’re using frozen meatballs, there’s no need to thaw them first. Just take them straight from the freezer and place them in your crockpot. If you’re making homemade meatballs, shape them into small balls and add them to the pot.
2. Mix the Sauce:
Grab a medium bowl, and whisk together the grape jelly, chili sauce, and soy sauce (if using) until everything is well combined. This will create a delicious sweet and tangy sauce for the meatballs.
3. Combine Sauce and Meatballs:
Now, pour the sauce mixture over the meatballs in the crockpot. Use a spatula or spoon to stir gently, ensuring all the meatballs are coated evenly with the sweet sauce.
4. Cook the Meatballs:
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook. If you want a longer cooking time, set it to low for 4-5 hours. For a quicker option, set it to high for 2-3 hours. The meatballs should be heated through, and the sauce will become thick and glossy.
5. Stir Occasionally:
If you can, stir the meatballs every hour during cooking. This helps ensure they cook evenly and are nicely coated in the sauce.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once they’re done cooking, take the lid off and garnish the meatballs with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve warm as an appetizer or party snack with toothpicks. They’ll be a hit!
Enjoy these tender, flavorful meatballs with a delightful sweet and tangy sauce that’s perfect for any gathering or a cozy dinner at home!
Can I Use Homemade Meatballs Instead of Frozen?
Absolutely! Homemade meatballs can add great flavor to the dish. Just be sure they are cooked through before adding them to the crockpot with the sauce.
Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?
Yes! You can use turkey or chicken meatballs for a leaner option. Additionally, you can reduce the amount of grape jelly and chili sauce used or opt for low-sugar versions to cut down on sugar content.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a little splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce.
What Can I Serve With These Meatballs?
These meatballs are great on their own as an appetizer, but you can also serve them over rice, pasta, or even in a sandwich for a flavorful meal. Pair with a side salad for a complete dinner!
